Choosing Your Pre-Accelerator: Making the Right Move for Your Startup
Are you trying to decide which pre-accelerator is right for your startup journey?
Join us for an insightful panel discussion featuring representatives from leading pre-accelerator programs. We’ll help you navigate the crowded landscape by exploring what each program offers, what sets us apart, and how our unique communities can support your vision.
You’ll hear directly from program leaders about their approach to education, mentorship, and founder support, as well as the values and networks that make each cohort experience distinct. Whether you’re looking for specialized guidance, access to investor networks, or a strong peer community, this panel will equip you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.
Founder Institute:
Founder Institute is one of the world’s largest pre-seed startup accelerators. Launched in 2009 and headquartered in Silicon Valley, it operates in over 200 cities across more than 90 countries. Its mission is to empower talented and motivated people to build impactful technology companies, providing a structured curriculum, expert mentorship, and a global support network for early-stage entrepreneurs. The program focuses on idea validation, customer discovery, fundraising readiness, and founder mindset, aiming to reduce the failure rate of startups at the earliest stage. Notable Founder Institute graduates include Udemy, RealtyMogul, and Goplaceit.
Funding Breakthrough Lab is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pre-accelerator with a mission of creating a supportive community (15,000+ subscribers) to build a better tomorrow. Focused on empowering founders during the earliest, most vulnerable stage of their journey, the Lab provides education, expert connections, and resources to help founders build resilience and tools to unlock their full potential. Participants gain the opportunity to pitch directly to top investors. Its cohort-based model places a strong emphasis on championing diversity, inclusion, and authenticity. Founded by Natalie Pan, an engineer, community builder and mindset coach. Apply for the next August 23rd cohort here https://fundingbreakthroughlab.org.
Berkeley SkyDeck
Berkeley SkyDeck is the University of California, Berkeley’s premier global startup accelerator. It combines the resources of the university, its alumni, and Silicon Valley to help early-stage companies scale rapidly. The program offers startups access to world-class mentorship, funding opportunities via the SkyDeck Fund, office space in downtown Berkeley, and a network of experienced advisors. SkyDeck focuses on innovation across diverse sectors and is known for its robust founder community and support for academic spinouts and international teams.
Draper University Hero Training Program
The Draper University Hero Training Program is an immersive, five-week pre-accelerator based in Silicon Valley, specifically designed for aspiring entrepreneurs. Founded by venture capitalist Tim Draper, the program features hands-on entrepreneurial training, leadership challenges, startup creation, mentorship from Silicon Valley experts, and pitch opportunities to top investors. The experience focuses on building founder resilience, bold thinking, and practical skills necessary to turn innovative ideas into scalable startups.